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The Science and Engineering Challenge is a nationwide program usually aimed at schools. Teams of students face a series of challenges with a time limit. Dungog schools were among the first to be involved – and now we’re holding our own challenge – for adults!

Get your team of 6-8 together now. You’ll face 3 great challenges (will it be Bridges, Catapults, Stringways, Grasping at Straws, Electricity?) and compete against the other teams.

Dungog High students will be there, not competing but acting as helpers, marshals, mobile phone cheater-catchers, mentors and judges.

How to enter. Get your 6-8 team member names, nominate one easy-to-contact captain, pick a name and send it to education@dscc.net.au, with contact details. Spectators welcome but no helping!

When: 9.30 arrival for a 10am start, Saturday 17 March 2018. The event will finish by 2pm.

Lunch: you can purchase a sausage sizzle. Dungog Lions Club will be running the barbecue.

Limited places – get in early.

The schools’ Science and Engineering Challenge is a STEM* outreach program presented by the University of Newcastle in partnership with communities, Rotary clubs, universities and sponsors. Big thank you to John Walton, event organiser.

Drug labsget shut down (or move on) but the residual contamination can remain, and presents serious risks. Solids, liquids and vapours can be absorbed by floorings, walls, drains, ducting, furnishings and fixtures. Even the residues from ice smoking can persist for years and the risks to children can be severe. In this fascinating talk, Dr Jackie Wright from EnRiskS brings 25 years experience in human health and environmental risk assessment to health and other consequences posed by illicit drug labs.

Fire fighting foamsinclude chemicals called PFCs and PFAs. These problematic chemicals have been found around airports and defence bases lately – including RAAF Bases Williamtown and Tindal and Army Aviation Base Oakey. Media stories are not always based on a great understanding of science so in this talk Therese Manning from EnRiskS will explore some of the basics for the chemicals – what makes them so widespread, what evidence for health and environmental effects, what we can do about them.

When: Friday 23 February 2018, from 6.30pm.

Where: James Theatre, Brown St Dungog.

Cost: Gold Coin Donation appreciated. No need to book. Just turn up on the night.

Who this is for: citizen scientists, everybody, science lovers, real estate agents and law enforcement agents, councillors and council workers.

Arabic Rhythms In Action (on your body!)

Over one afternoon in an air-conditioned hall, you will listen to some gorgeous Arabic music, analyse and dissect the rhythms of the percussion, then as a group begin to understand the moves that fit the music. And try them out!

A real percussionist will be joining in on tabla for some of the class (TBC). And after the class we’ll dig into some bubbles and Turkish Delight in the late afternoon summer.

Sally O’Loughlin (Amina) is Dungog’s popular belly dancing instructor. Amina has taught and performed for over 20 years, and brings a wealth of experience and fun to her classes. Age is no barrier.

This class is for women only – you can expect a nurturing, no-fear environment.

When: 2.00-5.30pm, Saturday 10 February 2018

Where: Anglican Hall, 51 Dowling St, Dungog.

Cost: $80 full price, $65 concession.

What to wear: Skirt, loose clothing, scarf around your hips , no shoes during the class. If you have a veil bring one along!

Who this is for: This will especially suit anyone who’s already been doing belly dance with Amina. You can be a near novice or a seasoned performer. If you’ve done a few classes with Sally, or if you can rustle up figures 8s (downward, forward, backward), shimmy, hip lifts, hip flicks and snake arms – the basics in other words – you’ll be fine.

No need to book – just turn up on the night.

From Thursday 8 February, 8 week term.

Exotic, flowing, graceful, belly dance is one of the oldest forms of dance. It’s also a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise and is suitable for all ages, with a whole range of benefits for health (see just a few listed below). Above all, belly dance is fun, and a great way to meet others and express your inner self!

Over the 8 weeks of the class, beginnerswill learn the classic moves, hip flicks, hip turns, figure of 8s – and how to shimmy. Beyond beginner students will move to the next layer and delve into veil work. Both groups will learn a short choreographed piece to perform for family and friends!

Sally O’Loughlin (Amina is her stage name) has been dancing for 23 years and teaching for 21. Amina spent three years as part of a troupe and has taught in her own private studio. She brings a wealth of experience and a sense of fun to her classes – and a commitment to making belly dancing a rich and rewarding experience for everybody. Amina has taught students aged 4 to 84 – age is no barrier.

This course is for women only – you can expect a nurturing, no-fear environment.

When & where: 5.45-7.00pm, Thursdays from 8 February to 29 March 2018 at the Anglican Hall, Dungog.

Cost: $15 per class payable on the night, or pay for all eight classes only $105.

What to wear: Skirt, loose clothing, scarf around your hips , no shoes during the class. If you have a veil bring one along!

Benefits: Belly dance is a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise and is thus suitable for all ages. It is a good exercise for the prevention of osteoporosis in older people. Many of the moves involve isolations, which improves flexibility of the torso. Belly dance moves are beneficial to the spine, as the full-body moves lengthens (decompress) and strengthens the entire column of spinal and abdominal muscles in a gentle way. Belly dancing is natural to a woman’s bone and muscle structure with movements emanating from the torso rather than in the legs and feet. The dance often focuses upon isolating different parts of the body, moving them independently in sensuous patterns, weaving together the entire feminine form.

No need to book, just turn up on the night.

If you want to pay for the full course at the discount rate of $105, you can either do so on the night (cash or cheque) or you can pre-book and pay by clicking here.

Rating: just the course to do if you’re considering getting into bees!

What to bring, what to wear:

• Long sleeve shirt and trousers (a pair of overalls with a zip‐front and elastic hems is perfect – basically, you’ll need to make sure that a bee can’t crawl under, through or around your clothes and then sting you).
• Fully enclosed and high footwear (gumboots under overalls work really well).
• A bee veil (only if you have one already: we have a few spare).
• Long gloves (if you have some already, we’ll have a few spare pairs).
• A broad brim hat & sunscreen.
• A fold‐up chair.

What we provide:

• Bee veils to share (we have 3 spare veils of different types).
• Long gloves to share (we have 2 spare pairs).
• Hive tools and other bee-keeping gear for you to look at and use.

Michael Netherton is a registered apiarist who produces and sells honey from his own hives on a small scale. As an active member of the Hunter Biodynamic Group he has different views regarding “normal” beekeeping. But in this workshop he will focus on what it is you need to know (and do) if you wish to keep bees using common equipment and procedures.

… from Fizzics Education

A fun science show performance where we blow stuff up!
In the name of science of course 🙂

What better way to get folk into science than to do the stuff they want to see!

Originally designed to be run at the Powerhouse Museum, this large stage performance gets noisy as the Fizzics Team explores the science behind explosions and explains why chemical safety is so important. This is not just a series of tricks though, their experienced presenter will cover a multitude of concepts:

air pressure differentials.

exothermic vs endothermic chemical reactions.

the effect of surface area on reaction rates

combustion requirements.

properties of liquid nitrogen

applications of controlled explosions and more…

Designed to get all sorts of citizens excited by science or simply end the year with a BANG!

The Fizzics Education team brought us a fantastic show at last year’s Dungog Festival. Don’t miss this one.

When: Saturday 18 November, at 12 noon.

Where: Dungog High School MPC (Multi-Purpose Centre). Entry via Chichester Dam Rd – some parking in the school back carpark, more in the bus stop and on the street.

Cost: gold coin donation.

Who will this suit? Kids! Adults! You!

How long is the show? nearly an hour. Go out for lunch in town afterwards!

BE BIRD ALERT is a multi-part event to make it easy to participate in Australia’s biggest Citizen Science event – The Aussie Backyard Bird Count. Whether you’re a novice or a committed twitcher, you’ll enjoy this free event.

COME ALONG at 3pm on Saturday 21 October to the James Theatre for a talk from Robert Griffin about the various sorts of birds, their habits and habitats, recognition tips, info on endangered birds and recent research programs. Plus some handy hints on what to do if you find an injured bird. Robert is a member of Birds Australia.

There will also be an introduction to the bird count app so you can join in the Aussie Backyard Bird Count on 23-29 October.

EARLY ON SUNDAY MORNING, 22 October, visit a local bird haven with a group to spot birds under the guidance of a bird mentor (limited numbers – book in at the Saturday talk).

ON SUNDAY MORNING, 22 October, finish off at a BIRD BRUNCH at the Dungog Community Garden to compare notes and experiences.

OVER THE NEXT WEEK, 23-29 October, join in the Aussie Backyard Bird Count and record the birds you see on the phone app or on the Aussie Bird Count website.

Who it’s for: Both novice and experienced bird observers.

When/Where:Introduction and talk – Saturday 21 October, 3.00pm at the James Theatre, 6 Brown St, Dungog.Mentored bird spotting – Sunday 22 October, AM – time and locations around Dungog will be announced at the Saturday arvo talk (limited numbers – book in at the Saturday talk). NB it will be a pretty early rise as “the early spotter gets the bird”. Bird Breakfast –Sunday 22 October, AM, after the bird spotting (gold coin donation).Aussie Backyard Bird Count– Monday 23–Sunday 29 October 2017.

Booking: No booking is required, however it’s best to attend the Saturday talk if you want to book a place on the bird mentor activity on Sunday morning.

Bird Count Registration: You can register as a counter for the 2017 bird count at the Aussie Backyard Bird Count website. The website also has information about downloading the phone app and field guides and other resources. Click here to check it out.

About our speaker. Robert Griffin has been a birdwatcher for 40 years. He first became interested in birds while living in the Blue Mountains. Initially his interest was in ‘bush birds’, but it now extends to all types of birds including waders and seabirds. An active member and supporter of organisations such as Birds Australia and Birding NSW, Robert is involved in monitoring programs such as those for the Powerful Owl and for the Australian Wader Studies Group. He also leads birding tours in Sydney and in regional New South Wales.

This popular, practical course with great career prospects is running from December 2017 till Sept/Oct 2018.

The course is now full – we hope the next will run in early 2019. You can contact us (above) to be put on the list. If you wish to start sooner, please either:

– visit the BCA National website to see what they have on offer (eg online learning), or

– contact John at the community college on 4992 1133 ext 7 to find out where else it’s being taught.

If you’d like to start your career in the aged or disability services sector, this is the program for you.

The Certificate III in Individual Support provides you with the skills to work in a community or residential setting. In this capacity workers follow an individualised plan to provide person centred support to people who many require support due to ageing, disability or other reasons.

This qualification includes 120 hours of work placement and equips you with the practical skills you will need in the work place (placement is one of the best ways to get work in the industry).

The core units are centred on individualised support, communication, legal and ethical work practices and BCA National’s program has been customised including three electives to allow for the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) specialisation. Furthermore two additional electives from the disability specialisation have been included to ensure the program provides you with exposure to the skills and knowledge required in disability services.

The registered training organisation presenting the course is BCA National. Training will be a day a fortnight face-to-face over 8 months or so.

Best of all, the price is very affordable, thanks to the NSW Government’s Smart & Skilled program. For those on most Centrelink benefits*, the course will be only $240. For Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander* students it will be free*. For disabled students or the carers of disabled people, it will be free*. For others, the course will cost either $1430 or $1750, depending on prior qualifications*.

(* Contact us for more on who qualifies for the various subsidies. Eligibility requirements apply.)

Get on the list for this great course (whether you can make the information session or not). Use “Contact Us” above. Get back to us with your name, an email address and a phone number. And any questions you might have!

PS Maybe it’s not for you but it might suit someone you know well. Pass this info on!

nexA visually stunning film illuminating the minute battles of nature from the micro to macro scale as a rhinoceros beetle, attacked by a fungus, struggles between life and death. Even the tiniest things can have a huge impact. Award for Technical Merit.

Einstein-Rosen from SpainIt’s the summer of 1982. Teo claims he has found a wormhole. His brother Oscar does not believe him… at least not for now. “A quirkily charming and entertaining film.” Best Short Film.

Pangolins in Peril – A story of rare scalesThe rare secretive Pangolin plays a vital ecological role but is on the verge of extinction. Two brave and passionate wildlife watchers fight against the odds to save the endangered Pangolin. “Simply and beautifully produced film that shows conservation biology in a political and social setting” Award for Scientific Merit.

The Purple Plain
How different would things have been if it had been one small step for a woman, and one giant leap for mankind? Inspired by the true story of Mercury 13; the first women who tested for space flight. Best Director.

Think Like a Scientist: Natural Selection in an OutbreakComputational geneticist Pardis Sabeti and disease ecologist Lina Moses bring us to the front line of the 2013-15 Ebola epidemic and explain the science behind how this event became the largest Ebola outbreak in history. Best Experimental/Animation.

Fix And ReleaseAn amazing team at a turtle trauma centre in Ontario, Canada is determined to battle to even the odds for freshwater turtle survival in the modern world. “An important story, well told and beautifully shot”. Best Documentary.

Test Tube BabesTwo sisters that are the outcome of IVF, explain the amazing science of reproductive biology with wit and charm. “You’ll never look at a paw-paw the same way again!” Special Jury Award.

OWSIA (Darkened Water)from IranThe aqueduct in the central Iranian city of Yazd has supplied water to the city for 2,500 years, now rots away due to bureaucracy and corruption. A 30 minute “fascinating well-made film about this living UNESCO heritage site, social politics and the complex issue of water rights”. Best Film.

…on a rammed earth base.

Learn the secrets of building a wood-fired oven just perfect for pizzas, bread and even roasts. You’ll be working with trainers Shane Hannan and Clare Tilyard. Get your hands dirty and get your brain firing with great ideas for your own oven.

In business? In the area? Want to meet, learn, discuss, explore, network and get inspired?

Come to our inspirational Business Forum on Monday 19th June 2017

It’s for locals with existing, new, and still-in-the-dreaming phase businesses.

Keynote speaker Barbara Sweeney will draw on her experience witnessing successful enterprises throughout regional Australia, to expand on the theme of “turning challenges into success stories”. Barbara is a journalist with Australian Country Style, food writer, and organiser of her own literary event, Food & Words.

There’ll be short talks introducing tools for evaluating products and services, new business models and ideas for making it on the net. And a panel to pull it together and get your questions answered.

The event is free, and includes nibbles, but you can also buy dinner from the menu if you wish.

When: 6-9pm, Monday 19 June 2017

Where: Dungog RSL, cnr Brown & Lord Sts Dungog

Cost: free including nibbles (but you can also buy dinner from the menu if you wish)

How to book: click hereto save your place. This link will go to Eventbrite where you can register for FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE

This event is put on by the Dungog Community College, as part of our Women Do Business Series but is open to all.

Dungog Community College’s “Women Do Business” Series is supported by the NSW Government through Women NSW.

Learn by doing! Build a foundation and then use formwork to build a low, walled structure. For a pizza oven!

Rammed earth is an old building technique made new again. It offers strength, thermal mass, beauty. In this workshop with local building designer Tom Chen and builder Shane Hannan you’ll get your hands literally dirty.

Discover how to peg out to your dimensions, install formwork, process clay, mix your materials (cement is used in this version), and ram the mix. Then do the same thing for a more complex 3-walled base (for a pizza oven). Put in a “services” box eg for power or water.

Finally the next steps will be explained, including how to seal the surfaces when they’re ready, known issues and your own situation. Rammed earth is brilliant for retaining walls, a feature wall, garden wall and so much more.

(Then comes the pizza oven. A week later, we’ll be having a workshop in “how to build a wood-fired pizza oven” over two half days, 8-9 July. Participants in the rammed earth course will receive a significant discount in the pizza oven course. Click herefor more on the Pizza Oven course.)

Come and discover some simple household tips to save money on your power bills. Find out how to put solar in. And learn the latest in renewable technology available locally.

The day includes:

– speakers on a range of power-saving topics, from energy efficient techniques for the busy householder, to the latest pathways and costs to “getting the solar on”, to some new developments in the science and tech. Speakers:

– the chance to join up to the Take Two Project, where your household can join with others in the shire to try out the ideas you’ve learnt on the day

– break-out sessions: choose the one that suits your situation or interests, get your questions answered

– activities and stalls – and morning tea

– a fun TV doco over lunch, or a tour of an eco-home (limited numbers)

10.15 Dave Watson on how to get the solar on, costs, metering and maximising sun consumption.

10.45 Tom Chen on passive solar building.

11.00 Julio Braslavsky from CSIRO on new developments in energy including batteries and how they interact with the grid.

11.45 Choose your breakout group and ask questions of the experts.

12.15pm Join the Take Two project with Helen Rubeli.

12.30 Watch a free fun BBC doco on the bicycle-powered home.

1.30 Tour a solar passive house ($10, booking essential).

Cost: Tour $10, everything else FREE.

This is aimed at anyone who’d like to lower their electricity bills! But it’s also great for someone who’d like to get connected to renewable technologies too. And there’s a splash of science thrown in for good measure.

There will also be stalls, activities and displays to peruse.

Book A Tour Of An Eco-Friendly House

Passive solar building means: good positioning of the house site, smart use of materials, eaves, thermal mass, windows, and understanding how a place will be used. The result is warm in winter, cool in summer and much lower bills. Discover how it can work in a lovely local home. Limited places, $10 per person, 1.30-2.30pm Sat 29 April 2017. To book a place on the tour, please click here.

First up DrCameron Webb of the University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital will look at “Beating the bite of mosquitoes that spread Ross River virus”. What sort of mozzies spread the virus? What are the links between local wetlands, wildlife and climate change for future outbreaks? Webb, who’s written much on mosquitoes including an excellent guide to mozzie repellents, will give tips for their safe and effective use and tricks to stop the critters breeding in our backyards.
Ticks will be covered by local vet Digby Rayward. He’ll focus on a new strain of Theileria affecting cattle but he’ll also be answering some of the questions he hears every day in his job about these rascals.

Bring a critter story. We’d love to hear a short (2-3 minute) yarn about a creepy-crawly, especially if it has some scientific interest. Like the one about waking up with a tick behind your eye. Or the time you saw a python trying to eat a bat twice its size and decided to investigate how large a prey a python can swallow.

No need to book – just turn up on the night. Or get the whole term discount by clicking here.

(Notice – our 3 hour Summer School – Arabic Rhythms In Action – has been postponed till later in the year.)

Term 1: Thursdays 8 February to 29 March 2018 at the Anglican Hall.

Exotic, flowing, graceful, belly dance is one of the oldest forms of dance. It’s also a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise and is suitable for all ages, with a whole range of benefits for health (see just a few listed below). Above all, belly dance is fun, and a great way to meet others and express your inner self!

Over the 8 weeks of the class, beginners will learn the classic moves, hip flicks, hip turns, figure of 8s – and how to shimmy. Beyond beginner students will move to the next layer and delve into veil work. Both groups will learn a short choreographed piece to perform for family and friends!

Sally O’Loughlin (Amina is her stage name) has been dancing for 23 years and teaching for 21. Amina spent three years as part of a troupe and has taught in her own private studio. She brings a wealth of experience and a sense of fun to her classes – and a commitment to making belly dancing a rich and rewarding experience for everybody. Amina has taught students aged 4 to 84 – age is no barrier.

This course is for women only – you can expect a nurturing, no-fear environment.

When & where: 5.45-7.00pm, Thursdays from 8 Feb to 29 March 2018 at the Anglican Hall, 51 Dowling St Dungog.

Cost: $15 per class payable on the night, or pay for all eight classes only $105.

What to wear: Skirt, loose clothing, scarf around your hips , no shoes during the class. If you have a veil bring one along!

Benefits: Belly dance is a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise and is thus suitable for all ages. It is a good exercise for the prevention of osteoporosis in older people. Many of the moves involve isolations, which improves flexibility of the torso. Belly dance moves are beneficial to the spine, as the full-body moves lengthens (decompress) and strengthens the entire column of spinal and abdominal muscles in a gentle way. Belly dancing is natural to a woman’s bone and muscle structure with movements emanating from the torso rather than in the legs and feet. The dance often focuses upon isolating different parts of the body, moving them independently in sensuous patterns, weaving together the entire feminine form.

No need to book, just turn up on the night. Or pay in advance and get the discount by clicking here.

This non-accredited class includes a useful workbook to take home and some information on staying hygienic in a hospitality setting. Although there’s no qualification, you will receive a Certificate Of Attendance for your participation.

It’s all about the coffee. Whether you’re after a job in a cafe or simply searching for espresso excellence, this course is for you. John Ellis is passionate about the quality of the coffee you make.

When: Saturday 11 March 2017, 9.30am-1.30pm.

Where: Dungog Festival Lounge, 224 Dowling St, Dungog.

Cost: Adults: $135. Youth (still at school or under 18) through Dungog Shire Community Centre – $50. We will need to pass your details to the Youth Service Facilitator after you’ve booked your spot.

What to wear: Wear comfortable clothes and closed-in shoes. There’s a practical segment to the course.

Breaks and food: There will also be a short break with tea, coffee and biscuits supplied.

Note: Places are limited. Email us (Contact Us, above) citing Barista to get put on the waiting list if the course is full.

Dungog Community College’s “Women Do Business” series is a great new initiative happening in 2017.

The four corners of the project are:

– subsidised Certificate IV in New Small Business for up to 10 women – learn business skills, get your idea or existing business really working, and develop a quality business plan. Subsidised by the NSW Government and supported by The Business Centre. (From March 2017) Click here for details.

– mentoring for those women by business mentor Kate Murphy, with the support of Hunter Region Business Enterprise Centre.

– a forum in Dungog shire “Entrepreneurship, financial basics and creative business for women”. (In May)

– an inspirational session for young women at Dungog High School: “$tart It Up – entrepreneurship, monetisation & creative business”. (In May)

The initiative is supported by the NSW Government through Women NSW.

This course has already started: contact us if you are interested in business courses.

Learn about financials, marketing, compliance, and day-to-day running of a business …

… earn a Certificate IV in New Small Business (BSB42615)…

… and come out at the end with a completed business plan for your new or existing business.

This great opportunity is one leg of Dungog Community College’s new Women’s Business Planning & Entrepreneurship Project.

The Cert IV in New Small Business is a dynamic course that covers much of what’s involved in running a small business — and also helps build skills in dealing with the unpredictable things that can happen in a business.

The course is tailored to small local rural businesses. It will suit you if you:

– have a great idea for a business and want to give it your best shot – from researching the market to getting the financials right to presenting a quality business plan eg to a bank

– are already involved in running a small business and want to give it a firm footing by getting the basics right – and perhaps even expand the biz.

(This course is also available to men at the Smart & Skilled standard rate.)

The Registered Training Organisation supplying this training is The Business Centre, Newcastle Region. RTO Code 90224. This training is subsidised by the NSW Government.

Mentoring

Selected students will also receive 5 face-to-face mentoring sessions and 5 over the phone with business mentor Kate Murphy of the Hunter Region Business Centre. Details coming soon.

When

The information and enrolment session will be on Wednesday 15 February from 10am at the CWA Hall in Dungog. If you can’t make this time, please get back to us and we can organise a briefing. We strongly advise all intending students to attend if possible. To express your interest in the course please email us at education@dscc.net.au and we’ll send you a form and put you on the list.

The course is planned to run two days a week, Tue + Wed, from Tuesday 28 February 2017. It won’t run on school holidays. The main training day will be the Tuesday. The Wednesday will include some training, some assessment opportunities, Q&A and will be an opportunity to get on top of the workload.

Cost

This is a subsidised course, but the amount of subsidy depends on your circumstances and whether you’re selected for a scholarship by the Women Do Business committee.

Scholarship students will pay anything from $0 to $460. Other students will pay anything from $0 to $1830. (Even this is heavily subsidised under the NSW Government’s Smart & Skilled program, as the normal full cost of the course is $5320.) For more on Smart & Skilled you can click here.

Please contact us to get an expression of interest form. Once we have your details we can tell you the likely cost for you.

Units Of Study

Plan small business finances BSBSMB402. Understand costs and pricing, develop a financial plan and how to finance a business.

Market the small business BSBSMB403. From marketing strategies to developing a marketing mix.

Undertake small business planning BSBSMB404. Minimise your risks while building a business plan.

Investigate micro business opportunities BSBSMB301. Hone those ideas, investigate what the market needs, and other factors.

Profile the market BSBMKG401. Know your potential customer and position yourself in the market.

Analyse consumer behaviour for specificmarkets BSBMKG402. Are you selling a product or a service? Is there already a market? What do consumers need and how do they behave?

Analyse and present researchinformation BSBRES401. Research, analyse and present for a variety of audiences.

Coordinate business resources BSBADM409. Keep an eye on your resources, your inventory, your records, and have your systems in place.

Report on financial activity BSBFIA402. Know where your business is at financially, collect the right records, get the paperwork working for you.

The Women Do Business series

Dungog Community College’s “Women Do Business” series is supported by the NSW Government through Women NSW. The four corners of the project are:

– subsidised Certificate IV in New Small Business for up to 10 women – learn business skills, get your idea or existing business really working, and develop a quality business plan. Subsidised by the NSW Government and supported by The Business Centre.

– mentoring for those women by business mentor Kate Murphy, with the support of .

– a forum in Dungog shire “Entrepreneurship, financial basics and creative business for women”.

– an inspirational session for young women at Dungog High School: “$tart It Up – entrepreneurship, monetisation & creative business”.

All about fungus – what it is, how it’s used, what can kill you, and what you might find in the bush.
Dr Lesley Wright and Skye Moore will reveal the fascinating world of this unique and surprising variety of life.
Fungi are genetically more closely related to animals than to plants. They are essential to ecological systems as the principal decomposers and recyclers – yet fungal diseases also cause serious worldwide health problems.
Skye Moore is the author of ‘A guide to common fungi of the Hunter-Central Rivers region’ and Dr Lesley Wright is a retired scientist working voluntarily for CSIRO Scientists-in-Schools at Gresford Primary.

This great ‘science sampler’ was developed as a way of introducing science to the greater community. It’s a 60 minute tour of some fun, in-your-face science, and will suit adults or families. See gigantic bubbles, flying toilet paper, hair-raising electricity, bubbling liquid nitrogen, levitating beach balls, volunteers on a nail chair, a giant gyroscope, coloured shadows, a flame equalizer and much more!

It’s Science, It’s Fun and It’s Free!

Who it’s for: Everyone.

When/Where:Saturday 29 October, 12.45 pm at Dungog Uniting Church Hall, 246 Dowling St, Dungog. This is a free event running as part of the Dungog Festival.

BE BIRD ALERT is a multi-part event to make it easy to participate in Australia’s biggest Citizen Science event – The Aussie Backyard Bird Count. Whether you’re a novice or a committed twitcher, you’ll enjoy this free event.

COME ALONG at 6.30 on Friday 14 October to the Dungog RSL for an introduction to the bird count. We will also have a short talk by Ingrid Berthold about Citizen Science and local photographer & Birdlife Australia member, Dick Jenkin, will talk about the practical aspects of local bird spotting.

ON SATURDAY MORNING, 15 October, you can join a group to do some bird spotting under the guidance of a bird mentor. This will be a great way for novice bird spotters to get some practical tips and experience out in the field.

ON SATURDAY MORNING, 15 October, finish off at a BIRD BRUNCH at the Dungog Community Garden to compare notes and experiences.

OVER THE NEXT WEEK, 17-23 October, join in the Aussie Backyard Bird Count and record the birds you see on the phone app or on the Aussie Bird Count website.

Booking: No booking is required, however you must attend the Friday night introduction if you want to be part of the bird mentor activity on Saturday morning.

Bird Count Registration: You can register as a counter for the 2016 bird count at the Aussie Backyard Bird Count website. The website also has information about downloading the phone app and field guides and other resources. Click here to check it out.

The aim of the course is to give local volunteers the skills and qualification to undertake traffic control duties at local community events such as the Dungog Festival, the Gresford Billy Cart Derby, local street parades etc.

The course is being subsidised by Dungog Shire Events Inc. Volunteers or their organisations only need to pay 30% of the cost of doing the course upfront. However, the agreement is that once people have completed the course, if they volunteer for traffic control duties at three local community events they will have that cost reimbursed by Dungog Shire Events. The Registered Training Organisation providing the course is Admire Workplace Training, RTO #91330.

Here are the steps that participants in the course need to follow:

Step 1 – enrol in the course

Put your name down for the Traffic Controller course. You can be sponsored by a local community group (e.g. Dungog Festival, Gresford Billy Cart Derby), or can pay for the course yourself. To book, please contact Ivan Skaines at ivans@dungog.nsw.gov.au or 4995 7777. He will need your phone number and email address.

The full cost of the course is $350, however with the 70% discount, your initial payment will be $105, not including the White Card cost.

Step 2 – complete a White Card online – and get your USI number

A prerequisite to the Traffic Control course is the White Card, which can currently be completed online. This is not included in the cost of the Traffic Control course and can cost anything from $40 up. A White Card (CIC or general construction induction card) is required for workers who want to carry out construction work, including people who are doing traffic control at construction sites, events etc. You can google White Card online courses. We recommend you complete the White Card as soon as possible. It take 2 or 3 hours online.

NB NSW does not offer on-line White Card but for the moment they do accept a White Card studied on-line from another state.

Prior to starting the online course participants will need to obtain a Unique Student Identifier (USI) number if they don’t have one already. A USI is a unique number that is allocated to anyone studying nationally recognised Vocational Educational Training (VET) in Australia. You will also need it for the Traffic Control course. Apply for your USI at www.usi.gov.au – it’s quick and it’s free.

The first day will be conducted at the SES Building in Dungog. Please bring some form of photo identification (drivers licence, passport, seniors card etc), your USI number, and evidence that you have completed the White Card. There will be theory and practical components to the day. Please bring a pen, wear comfortable clothes (including hat and maybe sunblock), and closed-in shoes. Lunch and morning and afternoon tea will be provided.

Step 4 – Day 2 of the Course – Friday 21 October

The second day is a practical assessment on-site at a location in or near Dungog. There will be 3 assessment sites used. Again, you will need to bring a pen, wear comfortable clothes (including hat and maybe sunblock), and closed-in shoes. You will also need to bring lunch, water and other refreshments.

Students deemed competent by the end of the day will be legally qualified to undertake traffic control duties, though the actual certificate will take some time to receive.

Step 5 – after the course

Your qualification will be mailed to you about 2 weeks after completion of the course. Once you have volunteered for traffic control duties at 3 local community events the 30% cost that either you or your community group paid upfront will be reimbursed by Dungog Shire Events. This qualification is valid for 3 years. It’s also useful for employment if you are looking for paid work on construction sites, roadworks etc.

Discover coffee-making with an espresso machine taught by our coffee guru John Ellis. Over 6 hours you will learn the core aspects of espresso creation and how to put them together to make fine coffee.

We are just finalising dates for this newly revamped course.

It’s all about the coffee. Whether you’re after a job in a cafe or simply searching for espresso excellence, this course is for you. We have developed this course to not only tick the boxes required to get the qualification – trainer John Ellis is also passionate about the quality of the coffee you make.

Accreditation: This is not an accredited course. It’s informative and fun, with some real skills being taught, and you will receive a certificate of attendance on completion. If you do want an accredited course, please get in touch with us and we’re happy to advise on possible training places.

When: No class yet. Hours 9.30am-3.30pm .

Where: Dungog Festival Lounge, 224 Dowling St, Dungog.

Cost: Adults $120, youth (still at school or under 18) $105.

What to wear: Wear comfortable clothes and closed-in shoes. There’s a practical segment to the course.

Breaks and food: please bring your own light lunch. There will also be a short break with tea, coffee and biscuits supplied.

Note: Places are limited for this course. Email us (Contact Us, above) citing Barista to get put on the waiting list.

This course has been cancelled. Please contact us at education@dscc.net.au if you’re interested in the RSA or the RCG.

The RSA is an essential legal requirement to work in any bar in Australia. This includes pubs, clubs, staff or supervisors, volunteers at fundraising and community events, where alcohol is served or sold. An RSA can be the key to travel, employment, and running successful functions and events.

You can also book for Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) either in combo or alone. See below.

This course will fill quickly, so get in quick.(Your place is only guaranteed by payment of the fee.)

To book, click here.

When: RSA Thursday 29 September 2016, 9.00am-3.30pm. (RCG is being held at the same venue the next day, on Fri 30 Sept.)

Where: Dungog Memorial Bowling Club, Brown St Dungog.

Cost: $160. This fee includes cost of processing your photocard.Dungog High students $135.

Combined with RCG: both courses for only $235. Click here if you just want Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG)

Accreditation: SITHFAB201 Responsible Service of Alcohol.

Photo Card: Once completed, you will attend an authorised agent to get your photo card – 100 points of ID are required. We’ll tell you more about what’s involved on the day.

Get your USI: The Unique Student Identifier (USI) is now compulsory for anyone undertaking an accredited course in Australia. It’s free and you can get it at this website: www.usi.gov.au.

What to bring: Lunch. And any items for note taking.

Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG)

Responsible gambling services must be provided wherever gambling activities are undertaken. In the hospitality industry, the gambling environment is usually referred to as the gaming area and is provided in a range of venues such as hotels, motels, clubs, pubs and casinos.
Gambling is defined as the staking of money on uncertain events driven by chance. The major forms of gambling are wagering (racing and sport) and gaming (gaming machines, table games, Keno and lotteries). Both forms of gambling are relevant to the hospitality industry.
You can do both for a significantly discounted price!

THE BEST OF SCINEMA

2 hours of the most amazing films from the 2016 International Science Film Festival showcasing the diversity of science films from across the globe.

When: 7pm, Wednesday 24 July 2016.

Where: James Theatre, Brown St, Dungog.

Rated M.

Cost: GOLD COIN DONATION, please.

PROGRAM:Robot Koch – Eclipse(ft Julien Marchal)(Germany) A musical journey through the cosmos created entirely by images from Hubble, NASA, ESA, ESO or Google Earth. Music from Robot Koch’s “Eclipse”.Living Close – Parasitism(Australia) Relationships are complicated. She’s an emerald wasp just trying to find the right guy to start a family. He’s a cockroach that has left it all behind for a cross-species parasitic relationship.Corpus(France) A complex chain reaction brings human organs to life. But can this creation be produced by a machine?The Amazing Life Cycle of the European Eel (UK) The Romans kept European eels as pets and adorned them with jewelry. Today, they continue to travel over 12,000 km back and forth from the Sargasso Sea to complete their life cycles.Metamorphosis of plants(Poland) This unique film is the result of two years spent watching and analysing the movements and metamorphoses of plants.Update(Germany) In the near future, apps and gadgets are seamlessly incorporated into day-to-day activities. Laura is comfortable with this life but her attitude to data has consequences.Maratus(Australia) A garbage collector takes a photo of a tiny colourful spider that will change his life.HILLEMAN: A Perilous Quest to Save the World’s Children(USA) An American scientist succeeds in developing more than half of the vaccines children receive today, saving 8 million lives every year since the mid-1960s, and yet few know his name.

A talk and public discussion about the National Broadband Network (NBN).

Alun Davies will help to demystify the NBN and explain why it matters for both individuals and businesses in regional Australia.

Davies will delve into the science and technology – and more. Topics will include: the NBN explained – FTTP, FTTN, fixed wireless and Sky Muster Satellite; cloud computing, 3D printers and robotics; building a digital economy and what regional areas can do to take advantage of digital disruption technologies.

The discussion will include plenty of time to answer your questions. (Which can be anything from “what exactly are digital disruption technologies” to “why do I get good internet and my neighbour doesn’t”.)

When: 7pm, Friday 22 July 2016. The event should go for about 90 minutes.

Where: James Theatre, Brown St Dungog.

Entry by gold coin donation.

Davies headed the successful NBN Lobby Group for New England, was a member of the Regional Telecommunication Review Committee and is Chair and Co-ordinator of the Armidale Digital Economy Implementation Group. His work has helped Armidale receive international recognition by being named in the top 21 Smart Communities for 2016.

The Paterson Allyn Williams Science Hub is a group of local organisations that are partnering with Inspiring Australia to produce local events and engage the community with science issues and activities.

Future events this year will include helping launch the local ‘boomerang bags’ initiative and soft plastics recycling scheme for Dungog Shire, a film program from the SCINEMA International Science Film Festival to screen at the James Theatre Dungog during science week in August, and a family-friendly citizen science project during National Bird Week in October.

New start date: this course is now starting on Wednesday 7th September 2016. Information and enrolment session will be held on Wednesday the 24th August 12.30pm at the Dungog shire Community Centre.

Start a rewarding career working with at-risk children and families. This course focuses on the skills you will need to engage with children and young people with complex trauma and attachment issues and needs. Each child, situation and case is different, and you will be given the training you need to assess the needs of each child or family and determine an appropriate course of action. The course also grounds you in the social, cultural
and legal frameworks relating to issues for families and young people.

When: Fortnightly face-to-face classes with trainer Tracy Cerff on Wednesdays from 7th September until March 2017. Classes typically run 9am-3pm.

Where: Anglican Hall, Dowling St Dungog.

Work placement: you will be doing 200 hours of work placement as part of this Diploma. This is a great way to gain experience in the industry.

Accreditation CHC50313.

Occupational titles/roles may include:

Payment Options:

1. Smart and Skilled

(An Initiative of the NSW Government)
Smart and Skilled is a reform of the NSW Vocational Education and Training (VET)
system. It’s helping people in NSW get the skills they need to find a job and advance
their careers.
To be eligible, you must:
• Be 15 years old or over
• No longer be at school
• Be living or working in NSW
• Be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holder or New Zealand citizen
For more information, call us on 1300 79 67 87

2. VET Fee-Help

VET Fee-Help is an Australian Government loan scheme that helps eligible students pay their tuition fees for Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses.
To be eligible you must:
• Be an Australian Citizen or hold a permanent humanitarian visa
• Have a tax file number
• EITHER provide your Year 12 certificate OR achieve exit level 3 in an Australian
Skills Core Framework test (BCA National can provide an ASCF test to you if required)
For more information, call us on 1300 79 67 87
or visit www.studyassist.gov.au

Yes, you may be entitled to both the Smart & Skilled course cost and the VET Fee-Help loan.

To book your place …

… or find out more information, contact BCA National on 1300 79 67 87.

More on the course:

Required: Access to internet and email. If this is an issue with you, please discuss with Dungog Community College to see if we can find a work-around for you.

Unlock the mysteries of email, internet, files, Windows, documents, and even turning the thing on and off. Discover the essentials on real PCs, with plenty of time to try things for yourself.

This course will suit novices and near-novices of any age. Trainers Tony Skimmings (who teaches I.T. at the high school) and Tim Norris (from Norris I.T.) have both an impressive understanding of the digital world and the patience and ability to make it Not-Too-Hard for learners.

Come to grips with the jargon, move around by keyboard or mouse. Explore the world over the internet, send and receive email. Open, edit and save a document. Deal with difficulties. Find out about security. Discover what your “next step in tech” might be.

Of course we can’t cover everything in one course, so we’ll find out when you book what your specific computer needs will be and tailor the training for the class.

The perfect gift for that non-connected loved one. To book, click here. Or ring us on 4992 1133 ext 7 and we’ll get busy with the booking.

Exotic, flowing, graceful, belly dance is one of the oldest forms of dance. It’s also a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise and is suitable for all ages, with a whole range of benefits for health (see just a few listed below). Above all, belly dance is fun, and a great way to meet others and express your inner self!

Over the 6 weeks of the class, beginners will learn the classic moves, hip flicks, hip turns, figure of 8s – and how to shimmy. Beyond beginner students will move to the next layer and delve into veil work. Both groups will learn a short choreographed piece to perform for family and friends!

Sally O’Loughlin has been dancing for 22 years and teaching for 20. Dancing under the name Amina, she spent three years as part of a troupe and has taught in her own private studio. She brings a wealth of experience and a sense of fun to her classes – and a commitment to making belly dancing a rich and rewarding experience for everybody. Sally has taught students aged 4 to 84 – age is no barrier.

This course is for women only – you can expect a nurturing, no-fear environment.

What to wear: Skirt, loose clothing, scarf around your hips , no shoes during the class. If you have a veil bring one along!

Benefits: Belly dance is a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise and is thus suitable for all ages. It is a good exercise for the prevention of osteoporosis in older people. Many of the moves involve isolations, which improves flexibility of the torso. Belly dance moves are beneficial to the spine, as the full-body moves lengthens (decompress) and strengthens the entire column of spinal and abdominal muscles in a gentle way. Belly dancing is natural to a woman’s bone and muscle structure with movements emanating from the torso rather than in the legs and feet. The dance often focuses upon isolating different parts of the body, moving them independently in sensuous patterns, weaving together the entire feminine form.

Have you ever had to step into the shoes of The Accidental Counsellor?

This workshop offers a great set of toolbox skills for those moments when you might least expect to be called upon in a counselling or caring capacity. In community services work, we may often be the first point of contact for someone in crisis needing immediate assistance. Even without formal qualification, a toolbox of counselling techniques and questioning frameworks provides the necessary support to clients when they are anxious, angry, experiencing loss or a challenging time in their life.

Participants gain a greater understanding of how to communicate more effectively and learn strategies to help foster effective and trusting relationships with clients or peers. In this workshop we ask participants to reflect on personal values and beliefs and how they influence interactions with clients. How you respond will create an impact on the person in need of support or assistance and often determine the outcome of your intereactions. This workshopw ill provide you with necessary skills and tools to step into the shoes of an accidental counsellor momentarily, respond appropriately, efficiently and effectively to people in crisis or distress when there may not be a professional immediately available. You will learn general counselling techniques including different questioning techniques in a given situation and how to de-escalate anxiety.

A four-week driver education program that will raise the awareness of road safety for new drivers and their families.

Topics include: consequences of car crashes, drugs & alcohol, head & spinal injuries, strategies for safer driving & information on the free keys2drive lesson which is funded by the Australian government.

Do six units of the Certificate IV in Disability and get a start on the course, a foothold into the industry, an understanding of this world. All fully subsidised.

Be part of the NDIS. The National Disability Insurance Scheme has started, enabling disabled people to create their own programs in consultation with case-workers and carers. Our certificate is the latest, designed to best respond to the NDIS.

Qualification code: CHC43115: six units.

Subsidised & affordable: enrolments are fully subsidised by NSW Government’s Smart & Skilled program – you pay nothing. In addition, this means that you will only pay for the uncompleted units (which we will also be offering under Smart & Skilled after the completion of the Skill Set).

The right skills: the Certificate IV is becoming the industry standard qualification. It will be presented by Transformational Institute, a Newcastle based Registered Training Organisation with a focus on leadership, management and disability. RTO #31269.

Starts: May 2016.

Blended training: one face-to-face session a month (most likely a Monday or Tuesday), completed by September.

Work placement: we are still investigating whether there is a work placement component of the Skill Set.

Interested? Contact Jane or John 4992 1133 or education@dscc.net.au. Or just come to the information session. Or both!

Be part of the NDIS. The National Disability Insurance Scheme has started, enabling disabled people to create their own programs in consultation with case-workers and carers. Our certificate is the latest, designed to best respond to the NDIS.

Qualification code: CHC43115.

Practical: includes 120 hours work placement for some serious real-world experience.

Subsidised & affordable: enrolments are subsidised by NSW Government’s Smart & Skilled program. Centrelink participants could pay as little as $240 (the most any student will pay is $2300* – still amazing value). Payment plan available.

The right skills: the Certificate IV is becoming the industry standard qualification. It will be presented by Transformational Institute, a Newcastle based Registered Training Organisation with a focus on leadership, management and disability. RTO #31269.

Starts: We are hoping for a start in May 2016.

Blended training: one face-to-face session a month plus work placement and some on-line training, over a year.

Interested? Contact Jane or John 4992 1133 or education@dscc.net.au. Or just come to the information session. Or both!

* Contact us to find out more about the subsidised price & confirm eligibility.

This course is postponed till mid Feb next year. Please contact us if you wish to get on the list.

Whether you’re travelling overseas soon or just want to learn the language, French For Travellers could be just the ticket.

Over 6 fun, fresh lessons, Jillian Ford will get you conversing: Getting Around, Asking For Help, Meeting People, Taking The Metro, Booking A Hotel or Restaurant, Appointments at Doctors or Hairdressers, Shopping In Boutiques, Dining Out & more. There’ll be a good dose of vocabulary & a little grammar, but mostly it’ll be about conversation, in a light-hearted non-judging atmosphere. Plus much on the culture & “French ways” of doing things.

Who it’s for: beginners who are travelling soon – or just want to learn a language. It will also suit students who took this class earlier this year. Expect extra activities to extend your learning.

A popular course with great career prospects, coming to Dungog.A Certificate III in Individual Care (Aged Care & HACC) is coming to Dungog Shire next year. And it’s very affordable.

This is the brand-new qualification that replaces the old Aged Care, Home & Community Care and Disability courses. Our version is very special.

Information session. Bring questions, get answers.

Where: Dungog CWA 199 Dowling St Dungog (next to Chillbillies)

When: 3.30-4.30pm Monday 1st February.

We are offering students:

– Aged Care AND Home & Community Care in the one certificate

– a cut-price First Aid certificate

– and a cut-price unit “Assist Clients With Medication”

This will also constitute about 3/4 of a Certificate III in Disability. The registered training organisation presenting the course will be WEA Hunter, who have been very generous and flexible. Training will be 2 days a week face-to-face starting February and finishing November. There’s 120 hours of work placement (which is one of the best ways to get work in the industry).

Best of all, the price is very affordable. For those on most Centrelink benefits*, the core course will be only $240 and the extra two units $80. For Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander* students it will be free, apart from the extra units. For disabled students or the carers of disabled people, it will be free, apart from the extra units*. For others, the course will cost either $1400 or $1730, depending on prior qualifications*.

(* Contact us for more on who qualifies for the various subsidies.)

Get on the list for this great course (whether you can make the information session or not). Use “Contact Us” above.

If you’re interested in this practical course with excellent employment prospects, get back to us with your name, an email address and a phone number. And any questions you might have! We intend holding an Information Session in late January and starting the course in February. Just click on Contact Us above and make sure you mention which course you’re interested in.

PS Maybe it’s not for you but it might suit someone you know well. Pass this info on!

PPS We may also be offering a Certificate IV in Disability next year too.

We’ve had to cancel this course (sorry!!). Please contact us at education@dscc.net.au if you are still keen to get your RCG or RSA.

Responsible gambling services must be provided wherever gambling activities are undertaken. In the hospitality industry, the gaming area is provided in a range of venues such as hotels, motels, clubs, pubs and casinos.

Whether you’re working where wagering on horses or sports happens – or where there’s gaming on Keno, lotteries and pokies, this course will work for you.

You can also book for Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) either in combo or alone. See below.

This course will fill quickly, so get in quick.(Your place is only guaranteed by payment of the fee.)The course cost includes the $70 cost of the photocard.

To book, click here.

When: RCG Friday 30 September 2016, 9.00am-3.30pm. (RSA is being held at the same venue a day earlier.)

Where: Dungog Memorial Bowling Club, Brown St Dungog.

Accreditation: Provide Responsible Gambling Services SITHGAM201.

Cost: $135. Cost for Dungog High School students is $110.

Photo Card: Once completed, you will attend an authorised agent to get your photo card – 100 points of ID are required. We’ll tell you more about what’s involved on the day of class.

Combined with RSA: both courses for only $245 (or $235 for Dungog High School students). Click here if you just want Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) alone.

Accreditation: SITHGAM201 Provide Responsible Gambling Services.

Get your USI: The Unique Student Identifier (USI) is now compulsory for anyone undertaking an accredited course in Australia. It’s free and you can get it at this website: www.usi.gov.au. You will need to provide this to us before you start.

What to bring: Lunch. And any items for note taking.

Add The RSA

The RSA is an essential legal requirement to work in any bar in Australia. This includes pubs, clubs, staff or supervisors, volunteers at fundraising and community events, where alcohol is served or sold. An RSA can be the key to travel, employment, and running successful functions and events.

The RSA is an essential legal requirement to work in any bar in Australia. This includes pubs, clubs, staff or supervisors, volunteers at fundraising and community events, where alcohol is served or sold. An RSA can be the key to travel, employment, and running successful functions and events.

You can also book for Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) either in combo or alone. See below.

This course will fill quickly, so get in quick.(Your place is only guaranteed by payment of the fee.)

When: RSA Friday 4 December 8.45am – 3.15pm. (RCG is being held at the same venue a week later, on Friday 11 December.)

Where: Dungog Memorial Bowling Club, Brown St Dungog.

Cost: $170. This fee includes $70 cost of processing your photocard.Dungog High students (including those just finishing Year 12) $150.

Combined with RCG: both courses for only $230. Click hereif you just want Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG)

Accreditation: SITHFAB201 Responsible Service of Alcohol.

Photo Card: Once completed, you will attend an authorised agent to get your photo card – 100 points of ID are required. We’ll tell you more about what’s involved on the day.

Get your USI: The Unique Student Identifier (USI) is now compulsory for anyone undertaking an accredited course in Australia. It’s free and you can get it at this website: www.usi.gov.au.

What to bring: Lunch. And any items for note taking.

Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG)

Responsible gambling services must be provided wherever gambling activities are undertaken. In the hospitality industry, the gambling environment is usually referred to as the gaming area and is provided in a range of venues such as hotels, motels, clubs, pubs and casinos.
Gambling is defined as the staking of money on uncertain events driven by chance. The major forms of gambling are wagering (racing and sport) and gaming (gaming machines, table games, Keno and lotteries). Both forms of gambling are relevant to the hospitality industry.
You can do both for a significantly discounted price!

Stats

51% of the Australian population believe most women can leave a DV situation, so why don’t they?

90% of children in violent homes have witnessed violence perpetrated against their mums. How does this impact them?

1 in 6 Australian women experience violence from a partner and 1 in 20 men. Are men just not reporting?

At least 65 women have died in Australia this year at the hand of their partner or ex-partner!

Tracy Cerff is a practising counsellor who specialises in DV and Childhood Abuse as well as working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety and co-morbidities. She is affiliated with Ricky Hunter & Associates, facilitating workshops throughout Australia.

Tracy has been lecturing and writing for colleges along the east coast of Australia for the past 5 years and counselling for 8. Life experiences led Tracy to work and study within the community services sector and to follow her passion in helping and supporting those affected by domestic violence and childhood abuse.

What kind of thing? short doco short drama Vine Instagram loop animation comedy interview (granddad, annoying sister, yourself, Swifty, Mac from up the road) home movie long shot of the main street or a cow Minecraft tour series of photos piece of iNterESting mUsiC artwork daggy app-created party in a shed or bedroom or paddock Vacy Gresford Paterson Claro Barringtons energy poignancy weirdness animals calm joy. All we need from you is the completed (*or close enough) work.

With expert training from John Ellis, you will gain a qualification recognised across Australia.

Do the prerequisite food-handling course in your own time. Use Hygienic Practices For Food Safety is a prerequisite for this class – if you don’t already have this unit (or its equivalent) you will receive a workbook and manual to complete before the day of the Barista class. Your trainer will check your workbook during the course of the day.

It’s all about the coffee. Whether you’re after a job in a cafe or simply searching for espresso excellence, this course is for you. We have developed this course to not only tick the boxes required to get the qualification – trainer John Ellis is also passionate about the quality of the coffee you make.

When: Saturday 13 August 2016, 9.30am-3.30pm (or a little later). If you can’t make this class, contact us to get priority for the next one.

Where: Dungog Festival Lounge, 224 Dowling St, Dungog.

Cost:Adults: $195 for both Make & Serve Espresso and Use Hygienic Practices For Food Safety; $140 for only Make & Serve Espresso Coffee (ie you already have a food handling certificate that meets current criteria).Youth (still at school or under 18) through Dungog Shire Community Centre – $30. We will need to pass your details to the Youth Service Facilitator after you’ve booked your spot.

Unique Student Identifier number: you will NEED THIS before you can receive your certificate. If you don’t already have a USI, please apply through www.usi.gov.au It’s quick and it’s free. The USI has been compulsory since 1 Jan 2015.

Do you already have the prerequisite course? Use Hygienic Practices For Food Safety SITXFSA101 has previously been known by a variety of names, including “Follow workplace hygiene procedures”. Contact us if you don’t have the exact course SITXFSA101. Please bring your Statement Of Attainment or other record to the Barista course.

What to wear: Wear comfortable clothes and closed-in shoes. There’s a practical segment to the course. Please bring ID on the day as well.

Breaks and food: please bring your own light lunch. There will also be a short break with tea, coffee and biscuits supplied.

Note: Places are limited for this course. We run approximately 10 Barista classes a year. Email us (Contact Us) above citing Barista to get put on the waiting list.

Aimed at small business and micro business, these short courses can give you a serious understanding of your financials, cash-flow, profit and loss, billing protocols and much more.

A changing array of subject areas will be offered over coming months. All of them are part of our Certificate IV in Bookkeeping (hey, here’s a thought: why not do the full cert5 ificate course?). They are all accredited, accepted nationwide and can even become part of a full qualification in Business, Accounting or Bookkeeping.

G Excel & Record-keeping

You can also mix and match other units from the Certificate IV in Bookkeeping. Contact us for more details.

Cost: each individual unit costs $377.

Where: a venue in Dungog shire – probably the Anglican Hall (TBC).

When: face-to-face training is on a Thursday evening and the very next Saturday daytime. The first three skill sets all start with the same unit, Establish and maintain a cash accounting system, on Thursday 6 Augst 5.45pm-9pm and Saturday 8 August 10am-2pm.

Your trainer: Julie Blatch has been an accountant, trainer, business mentor, and resource developer for over 25 years. She’s also friendly, fun and passionate about financial skills empowering business owners. The Registered Training Organisation is BCA National.

What kind of workload: there will be some assessment in class, plus home study and project work. Every unit is different.

Can I ‘work on my business’ via the class? Yes, to an extent. While some of the training and assessment work will involve case studies, there will be opportunities to apply your new skills to your own business as well. Again, it varies from unit to unit.

I’m interested. What do I do next? Make contact, get on the list, enrol. As courses come up, we’ll get in touch. You can contact us through our website (see the ribbon above) or call Laura O’Leary at BCA National on 1300 69 35 65.

To place a bid for any item, simply send an email to education@dscc.net.au with the item number, name, and your own MINIMUM and MAXIMUM bid. You can also TEXT your bid to 0427 290 209. Don’t forget to include your own contact details.

CLOSING TIME FOR “distance” BIDS: 5.30pm Saturday 20 June.

IF YOU’RE THERE ON THE NIGHT: you can bid in person, of course! Auction starts around 8.15pm.